Stabilized agricultural apparatus

ABSTRACT

An agricultural apparatus is disclosed. The apparatus is adapted to be mounted to an agricultural machine such as a tractor and is provided with a boom having two arms extending in a direction substantially transverse to the agricultural machine. The boom arm are provided with a plurality of heads, adapted for either cutting or spraying, and can be used to cut or spray discrete areas of vegetation over which the apparatus passes. The apparatus is adapted to maintain the arms in a direction substantially parallel to the vegetation over which it is passing irrespective of the terrain.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates to agricultural apparatus adapted for use incombination with an agricultural machine such as a tractor or the like.The invention particularly relates to cutting machines provided with aplurality of cutting elements and adapted for topping plants. By theterm “topping” is meant the cutting to a desired height of a particularplant. The invention additionally provides a spraying machine having aplurality of spraying heads and adapted for spraying plants withpesticides and the like.

BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION

The use of agricultural machinery is well known as an efficient mannerto effectively manage large areas of vegetation. The type of machinevaries with the specific application but it is well known to utiliseindividual machines for the cutting of vegetation and spraying. Thesemachines are connectable to an agricultural vehicle such as a tractorand are operable, typically from within the cab. When providing amachine with a plurality of heads, either for spraying or cutting, it isnecessary to ensure that these are provided in a stable operatingcondition such that the vehicle can traverse different terrainconditions without altering the performance of the cutting or spraying.

Agricultural cutting machines are well known for varying applications.The cutting machines are typically mounted to the front of the tractor,and controlled from within the cab of the tractor by the driver.Depending on the application the cutting machine may comprise one or aplurality of cutting elements.

Another known cutting machine is described in U.S. Pat. No. 3,683,603and discloses a plant topping device which is connectable to a tractor.This plant topping device includes at least one rotary cutting devicewhich is mounted upon a frame which extends transversely to the movementof the tractor to which the device is mounted. The frame is moved overthe tops of the plants and the action of the rotary blade cuts the topsoff the plants. The device is fully height adjustable. By using multiplecutting heads it is possible to cut a plurality of plants at the sametime. This device is described for use in tobacco farming wherein aplurality of plants are provided in parallel rows. By using a devicesuch as that described in U.S. Pat. No. 3,683,603 it is possible to topmultiple plants in adjacent rows at the same time. While beingadvantageous in that multiple plants may be cut simultaneously, thedevice of U.S. Pat. No. 3,683,603 suffers in that the frame portionextends to only one side of the tractor, thereby reducing the cuttingcoverage, and due to the rigid mounting arrangement of the frame to thetractor is not suitable for mounting multiple heads to the frame. Theaddition of more cutting heads to this device in an attempt to overcomethese shortcomings, is not possible as the mounting arrangement is notsufficiently stable to support the additional length of the framerequired to support more cutting heads.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,960,614 discloses a mower boom with a dampeningmechanism. This is provided in the form of a torsion hitch which enablesa cushioning of movement of a mower attachable to a tractor. Thiscutting arrangement does not extend any great distance beyond the widthof the tractor, and therefore the area of cutting that can be effectedin any one sweep is quite small.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,210,997 describes a side mounted cutting arrangementwhich is extendible to one side of the agricultural vehicle to which thecutting arrangement is mounted. The arrangement includes an articulatedboom with a cutting head mounted to the end thereof. The boom ispivotable through an arc in excess of 180°, and does enable the cuttingof vegetation some distance from the agricultural vehicle, but due tothe provision of only one cutting head is limited to a specific areaapplication.

There, therefore, exists a need to provide an improved cutting devicefor cutting a multiplicity of plants in adjacent rows. There also existsa need to provide an improved spraying head arrangement for enabling thespraying of a large area of vegetation utilising a stable sprayingdevice.

OBJECT OF THE INVENTION

It is an object of the present invention to provide a an agriculturalapparatus provided with a plurality of cutting elements or spray heads.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Accordingly the present invention provides an agricultural apparatusadapted to be mounted to an agricultural vehicle, the apparatuscomprising:

-   -   a mounting frame mountable on the agricultural vehicle,    -   a height adjustable boom pivotably mountable on the mounting        frame and provided with a series of cutting elements for cutting        discrete areas of vegetation over which the boom is passed, the        height of the boom relative to the mounting frame being        adjustable so as to allow the height at which the vegetation is        cut to be adjusted, the boom being pivotable to enable the boom        to move in a direction transverse to the intended direction of        travel, and    -   a damper provided between the boom and the frame to dampen        movement of the boom relative to the frame.

In an alternative embodiment the apparatus is modified for use as aspraying apparatus.

The boom is preferably moveable between at least two positions, a firstoperative position wherein the boom is substantially transverse to thevehicle and a second non-operative position wherein the boom issubstantially aligned with the longitudinal axis of the vehicle.

The mounting frame desirably comprises an outer frame comprising twoparallel vertically disposed support struts connected by a horizontalconnect member and a central strut provided between the support strutsand suspended from the connect member. The suspension of the connectmember is preferably effected by co-operation of the central strut to abiasing means provided on the connect member, the biasing means enablinga movement of the central strut in response to the forces applied to theframe so as to form a damper.

The forces applied to the frame typically arise from a motion of theagricultural vehicle over uneven terrain.

The boom is desirably provided with a sleeve member adapted toco-operate with the central strut of the mounting frame, theco-operation of the sleeve member with the central strut enabling amovement of the support frame along a longitudinal axis of the centralstrut.

The movement is desirably effected by the provision of a pistonarrangement attachable to both the central strut and to the sleevemember, the actuation of the piston arrangement effecting a relativemovement of the strut and the sleeve, which when a desired relativeposition is achieved can be maintained by a locking of the piston.

The boom additionally comprises a support member pivotably attachable tothe sleeve member, and additionally pivotably connectable at either endthereof to swinging support arms, the swinging support arms beingpivotably connectable at their other end to a boom connection frame, thepivoting arrangement of the support arms relative to both the supportmember and the connection frame enabling a movement of the connectionframe relative to the sleeve member.

A second piston arrangement is suitably provided so as to enable amovement of the support member relative to the sleeve member, themovement effecting a change in level of the boom connected thereto. Thesecond piston arrangement is suitably mountable to both the sleevemember and the support member, the actuation of the piston effecting apivoting of the support member relative to the sleeve member, therebychanging the angular disposition of the connection frame.

In this way it will be appreciated that the invention provides amounting frame which is rigidly attachable to an agriculture vehicle,the mounting frame being pivotably attachable to an arcuating boom, thearcuating boom having a plurality of cutting devices mounted thereon

Each boom is preferably provided with a plurality of engagement meansadapted to engage with individual cutting devices.

The cutting devices desirably comprise a shaft unit adapted toco-operate with the engagement means provided on the boom, the shaftunit comprising a collar with a rotatable shaft mounted therein. Thecollar is desirably co-operable with the boom and the rotatable shaft isfree to rotate within the collar. The rotatable shaft is desirablyprovided with cutting elements at one end thereof, the cutting elementsbeing remote from the boom.

Guard means may additionally be provided, the guard means being providedbetween the boom and the cutting elements, the guard means adapted toprevent any vegetation coming into contact with the shaft.

The length of the cutting elements is preferably adjustable.

Desirably, adjacent cutting devices are provided with cutting elementsof non-equal length.

The rotation of the cutting elements is desirably effected by means of abelt mechanism, the belt mechanism being desirably powered by a motormountable to the boom. In a preferred embodiment the same belt is usedfor effecting rotation of all cutting elements.

In accordance with another embodiment an agricultural apparatus isprovided having an extendible boom adapted, which when mounted on anagricultural vehicle, is adapted to extend on both sides of the vehicle,the boom having a plurality of heads that can cut or spray discreetareas of vegetation over a crop canopy through which the agriculturalvehicle passes. The apparatus is adapted such that the settings forheight and angle adjustment of the boom are maintained over bumpy groundand on side hills by a dampening system which consists of free hangingpendulum that carries the boom, the pendulum being suspended from avertical strut that is pivotally carried on the mounting frame and movesagainst the transverse movement of the agricultural over uneven groundthus always keeping the pendulum and the vertical strut parallel.

The boom desirably comprises two arms, each arm being moveable betweenat least two positions, a first operative position wherein the boom issubstantially transverse to the vehicle and a second non-operativeposition wherein the boom arms are substantially parallel.

Preferably each arm of the boom is provided in a plurality of engageablesections, at least one of the sections being foldable onto another, andwherein in an extended position the multiple sections are supported byinterleaving support members extending along the axis of the arm.

The damper of this embodiment desirably comprises a vertical strutpivotably mounted to the mounting frame and pivotable relative to apendulum which is further pivotable relative to the boom, the pendulumbeing mounted so as to desirably maintain an orientation substantiallyperpendicular to the vegetation over which the apparatus passes andwherein the vertical strut acts so as to desirably maintain anorientation parallel to the pendulum.

The boom preferably additionally comprises a support member pivotablyattachable to the pendulum, and additionally pivotably connectable ateither end thereof to swinging support arms, the swinging support armsbeing pivotably connectable at their other end to a boom connectionframe, the pivoting arrangement of the support arms relative to both thesupport member and the connection frame enabling a movement of theconnection frame relative to the vertical strut.

Such pivotable mounting of the boom relative to the pendulum isdesirably provided by a carrier arm engageable with both the pendulumand the arms of the boom, a pivoting of the carrier arm relative to thependulum enabling a change in orientation of the arms relative to thependulum.

The carrier arm may include an actuating means, such as a hydraulic ram,disposed between the carrier arm and the pendulum, actuation of whicheffects a movement of the carrier arm relative to the pendulum.

The mounting frame typically includes engagement members adapted toengage with restraining members provided on the boom, the interactionbetween the engagement members and the restraining members maintainingthe boom in an orientation transverse to the intended direction oftravel. Such maintenance allows maintaining a free movement of the boomregardless of gradient over which the agricultural vehicle travels.

When provided, the engagement members are typically mountable on armsextending from either side of the mounting frame, the arms beingpivotably mountable relative to the mounting frame and adapted to moverelative to the mounting frame to compensate for any correspondingmovement of the boom.

Each of the arms are desirably pivotably mountable to a moveable connectmember provided on the mounting frame, the connect member therebyconnecting both sides of the boom through the mounting frame such thatmovement on one side of the boom can result in movement of the otherside of the boom.

The apparatus may be adapted to include sensing means, the sensing meansadapted to sense any movement of the pendulum relative to the verticalstrut and to effect a movement of the vertical strut relative to themounting frame to compensate for such movement.

The pendulum is typically, in this embodiment, mountable on an archedroller arrangement provided between the vertical strut and the pendulum.Such an arched roller arrangement may comprise a roller mechanism havingat least two rollers which are adapted to be moveable along a curvedsupport bar, the pendulum being suspendable from the roller mechanism.The roller arrangement may further include biasing means adapted tomaintain the roller mechanism in a central orientation relative to thecurved support bar.

In a preferred embodiment the vertical pendulum is telescopic, thetelescoping pendulum having a hydraulic ram fitted thereto, an actuationof the ram effecting a change in length of the pendulum.

The provision of such a ram can be adapted to effect a cushioningextension or contraction of the pendulum so as to enable it to provide adampening effect.

These and other features of the present invention will be betterunderstood with reference to the following drawings

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 shows a cutting apparatus according to the present inventionmounted on a tractor and in the operable position,

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a portion of the mounting frame and boomof the present invention,

FIG. 3 is a view of the device shown in FIG. 2 in an alternate position,

FIG. 4 is a view of the device of FIG. 3 in yet another alternativeposition,

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the boom showing the positioning ofcutting devices thereon,

FIG. 6 is an exploded view of a cutting device of the present invention,

FIG. 7 is an alternative embodiment of the apparatus of the presentinvention corresponding to the view of FIG. 2,

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the embodiment of the FIG. 7 mounted ona tractor and in the operable position,

FIG. 9 a is a front view of an agricultural apparatus according to afurther embodiment of the present invention operating on level terrain,

FIG. 9 b is a side view of the agricultural apparatus of FIG. 9 a,

FIG. 10 is a front view of the agricultural apparatus of FIG. 9 movingover a bump,

FIG. 11 is a front view of the agricultural apparatus of FIG. 9 workingon a side of a hill.

FIG. 12 a is a front view of the mounting frame portion of theapparatus,

FIG. 12 b is a side view of the mounting frame of FIG. 12 a,

FIG. 12 c(i) to (iii) are detailed front views of the operation of atorsion system of the present invention in three exemplary positions,

FIG. 13 a is a front view of the pendulum and vertical strut portion ofthe apparatus,

FIG. 13 b is a side view of the portion illustrated in FIG. 13 a,

FIG. 14 is a front view of the centre couch end damper portion of theapparatus,

FIG. 15 is a detailed view of the pendulum,

FIG. 16 a is a detailed view of the carrier arm portion of theapparatus,

FIG. 16 b is a perspective view of the boom carried on carrier arm ofFIG. 16 a,

FIG. 17 is a front view of the apparatus showing the positioning of theboom arms in an intermediary position,

FIG. 18 is a front view of the apparatus showing the positioning of theboom arms in an upright non-operable position, and

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of the boom of FIGS. 17 and 18 in anextended position.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIGS. 1 to 6 show a cutting apparatus 1 according to a first embodimentof the present invention. In a preferred embodiment the apparatus 1 isadapted to be mounted on the front of an agricultural vehicle, such as atractor 100. The apparatus comprises a mounting frame 3, having a boom 4connected thereon, the boom having a plurality of cutting devices 5which when the boom is in the operable position, shown in FIG. 1, extendsubstantially transverse to the longitudinal axis of the tractor. As thecutting devices 5 are disposed on both sides of the tractor, it ispossible for the farmer or other user to drive the tractor in a fieldand cut vegetation on both sides of the tractor. The view shown in FIG.1 details the provision of cutting elements on one arm of the boom only,and it will be appreciated that this is for simplicity of understanding,and that cutting devices are provided on both sides of the boom.

As shown in FIGS. 2 to 4, the mounting frame 3, which is mountable onthe agricultural vehicle, is connectable to the height adjustable boom 4which is pivotably mountable on the mounting frame. The height of theboom relative to the mounting frame is adjustable so as to allow theheight at which the vegetation is cut to be adjusted, and the boom ispivotable to enable the boom to move in a direction transverse to theintended direction of travel of the tractor. Such a transverse movementminimises the movement of the boom in an upwardly and downwardlydirection when the tractor is passing over uneven terrain, but whenencountering serious bumps in the ground can allow the boom to moveacross thereby keeping the side that the boom is going towards to beslightly raised and the other side of the boom to be lowered.

In the embodiment of the present invention illustrated in FIG. 2 to 4,the mounting frame 3 comprises a rectangular frame 6 having two verticalsupport members 7, 8 with a horizontal bar 9 linking the two across thetop of the frame. The frame is attachable to the front of the tractorwith a quick release mechanism such as that known for front loader typedevices.

A leaf spring 10 is provided on the horizontal bar 9 and a central strutor pendulum 11 is suspended therefrom. This spring is adapted to absorbimpacts while travelling on bumpy ground, thereby acting as a damper.

The pendulum 11 hangs from the horizontal bar 9, by means of aconnection member 15, and is slidably connected to the boom by means ofa sleeve member 12 moveable on the central strut. The movement of thesleeve member 12 relative to the strut 11 is controlled by means of ahydraulic ram or piston 13 attachable to both the connection memberportion 15 of the strut 11 and the sleeve member 12. Actuation of thepiston can move the sleeve member either up or down the strut 11, andonce the desired position is achieved the piston is locked, such thatthe sleeve and strut effective form a single rigid member. The movementof the pendulum in a direction away from the vertical is dampened by theprovision of springs 61, 62 which are attached to a lower portion of thependulum 11 and the mounting frame 3.

The sleeve member 12 is pivotably connected to a support arm 14 of theboom at an upper portion thereof. Desirably, the support arm 14 is aV-shaped member pivotably attached to the sleeve member at the lowercentral portion of the V. Two swinging support arms 16, 17 are pivotablyattached at each end of the support arm and are adapted to carry asupport frame 18, through two pivot connections 19, 20. The supportframe 18 is thereby free to move in a direction transverse to thehanging central strut. The movement of the support frame is dampened bythe provision of two springs 33, 34 linking the support frame 18 to themounting frame.

The V-shaped support arm 14 is desirably also connectable to a ram 21which is connected at the other end thereof to the slide member.Actuation of the ram 21 can therefore alter the angular orientation ofthe arm 14 relative to the slide member. This can be used to change theorientation of the boom in circumstances where it is being used innon-level terrain, such as in a field on the side of a hill.

The support frame 18 is hingably attached to two arms 22, 23 of theboom, each arm carrying a plurality of cutting elements. This hingeattachment enables a movement of the arms from an operable position, asshown in FIG. 1, wherein the arms extend transversely to the directionof travel of the tractor, to a non-operable position wherein the armscan be retracted alongside the tractor, not shown, so as allow for easeof transport between locations where cutting is required. The pivotingarrangement of the arms 22, 23 is enabled by a ball socket arrangement70 provided on the mounting frame 3 and which is linkable to an upperportion of the arms 22, 23 via a threadable locking arm 73. The frame 3is attachable directly to a lower portion of the arms 22, 23 by aninter-engagement of the arm 22, 23 with a socket 72 provided on theframe 3. To move the arm rearwardly so as to align with the tractor itis necessary to rotate the arm about the pivot points 71, 72. It will beappreciated by those skilled in the art that alternative methods ofproviding this movement may be evident to those skilled in the art.

Each arm is provided with a series of engagement locations for locatingindividual cutting devices. As shown in FIG. 6, individual cuttingdevices 5 desirably comprise a shaft unit 24 adapted to co-operate withthe engagement means provided on the boom arm. The shaft unit 24comprises a collar 25 with a rotatable shaft 26 mounted therein. Thecollar 24 is desirably co-operable with the boom and the rotatable shaftis free to rotate within the collar. The rotatable shaft is desirablyprovided with cutting elements 27 at one end thereof, the cuttingelements being remote from the boom arm. The cutting elements or blades27 are mountable within a blade holder 28 which is adapted to enableeasy removal of the individual blades from the holder, yet which whenmounted therein are not prone to accidental removal. The blade holder 28is clamped to the end of the shaft 26. At the other end of the shaft 26,a belt head 29 is provided, the belt head adapted to co-operate with abelt 30 which is powered by a hydraulic motor locatable in the centralportion of the boom. The rotation of the belt 30 effects a correspondingrotation of the belt head 29, and the cutting elements 27 connectedthereto. It will be appreciated from an inspection of the drawings thatthe entire operable mechanism of the belt operation has been shown insimplified form.

Desirably, adjacent cutting devices 5 are provided with non-equal lengthcutting elements so as to ensure that the individual cutting elements donot come into contact with each other, thereby leading to an accident.To ensure that an equal coverage of cutting of the vegetation isachieved the height of the cutting devices is staggered, as shown inFIG. 5.

Guard means 31 may additionally be provided on the boom arms. The guardmeans 31 are provided between the arm and the cutting elements 27, theguard means adapted to prevent any vegetation coming into contact withthe shaft. It also ensures that any weeds encountered during operationof the apparatus are directed towards the cutting elements.

When the device of the present invention is being used the boom arms areextended to their full length transverse to the intended direction oftravel of the tractor. The height of the boom relative to the mountingframe is adjusted for the vegetation in question, and the angulardisplacement of the two arms is also adjusted to compensate for a nonlevel field. Once this has been chosen, the hydraulic motor is turned onwhich effects a rotation of the belt and thereby effects a turning ofthe cutting elements. The tractor is then moved about the field toppingthe vegetation located in adjacent rows. This application isparticularly suitable for the control of wild oats in grain fields.

FIGS. 7 and 8 shows an alternative embodiment of the apparatus of thepresent invention and the same reference numerals are used for similarcomponents. In this embodiment the dual vertical support strutspreviously described have been replaced with a single vertical strut703. This strut is pivotable at the bottom portion thereof and can betilted by a ram 703A. This allows for a maintenance of the support strutin an orientation parallel with the pendulum such as for example duringmovement on the side of a hill.

The single strut 703 is adapted to support a horizontally displacedcurved bar 709 which provides for a smoother running of a wheel orroller when the tractor is passing over a bump.

The shock absorber or damper that was previously incorporated is nowprovided by means of a ram 713. This functions in much the same manneras the ram 13 previously described but in addition to maintaining theboom at the correct height also includes an accumulator so as to cushionthe boom over rough terrain.

A portion of the pendulum 11 is carried using a roller or wheel 707,which is desirably adapted to run over and back on the curved bar 709.This wheel 707 is centred by springs 710 which are provided on eitherside thereof. It will be appreciated that when the tractor is travellingover level ground the wheel or roller is at the highest of the curve orarch which is in the middle of the curved bar whereas when the tractortravels over bumpy ground the wheel is biased to its normal position bythe action of the two springs on the roller.

In this embodiment the boom frame 18 is connected directly to the sleeve12 at a connection location 719. A connecting ram 721 is adapted tocouple the boom frame 18 directly to the mounting support at aconnection location 714. This serves to also control the sidewardsdisplacement of the boom relative to the frame.

A single spring or damper 761 is provided to control the movement of thependulum arm 12 in a vertical direction.

FIGS. 9 to 18 illustrate a further embodiment of the agriculturalapparatus of the present invention, which is similar in construction tothat illustrated in FIG. 7. Again a single vertical strut 903 isutilised as opposed to the two vertical struts that were described inthe embodiment of FIG. 1 to 6.

The vertical strut 903 is connectable to the agricultural vehicle bymeans of a mounting frame (1200). The mounting frame is rigidlyattachable to the agricultural machine but the vertical strut ispivotably connectable to the mounting frame. A pendulum (912) is alsoprovided, the pendulum being pivotable relative to the vertical strut.The pendulum is adapted to support two boom arms (940), the boom armbeing pivotable relative to the pendulum and extending either side ofthe pendulum. The boom arms are provided with restraining members (945)which are adapted to interengage with the mounting frame (1200) so as toprevent a movement of the boom in a direction away from the mountingframe. A plurality of cutting or spray heads (943) are provided on eacharm (940). FIGS. 9, 10 and 11 illustrate how various components of thesystem may move relative to one another as the agricultural machinemoves over varying terrain.

As shown in FIGS. 12 a, 12 b and 12 c, the mounting frame 1200 ismountable on an agricultural tractor (not shown)by a three point linkageor any other means at a connection location (1204). The vertical strutis pivotablly connectable to the mounting frame at a pivot location(1207). The frame 1200 provides engagement members in the form desirablyof two vertical roller mechanisms (1205), the roller bars being providedfor maintaining the boom transverse to the intended direction of travelwhile maintaining a free movement of the boom regardless of gradient.The roller arms (1205) are adapted to interengage with the restrainingmembers (945) provided on the boom. In operation this system allows bothhorizontal and vertical movement of the boom transverse to the tractor.

A torsion system (1206), shown in three positions in FIG. 12 c allowsthe boom to be cushioned from abrupt acceleration or deceleration of thetractor including obviating any swivelling behaviour of the boom as thetractor turns. The torsion system (1206 FIG.12C) can be furthercomplemented by the addition of a moving pivotable connect memberallowing the left and right sections of the torsion system to interactin that any transverse movement of any side is mirrored, both sides ofthe torsion system are pivoted (1211) separately to the mounting frame,the moving pivotable connect member (1210) connecting both sides of thetorsion system, cushioning & restriction of movement is achieved throughthe use of rubber blocks (1209) at adjacent sides of the movingpivotable connect member, these rubber blocks are ridgely fixed to themounting frame, the rubber blocks can be replaced by springs or anythingof a similar nature.

The torsion system can negate impending effects of( pushing, pulling)forces, where by a pushing force on one side of the boom wouldcorrespond in a change of position of (1206) with the direction of forceexperienced, this change of position would correspond to an equalmovement of the restraining bars (1205) on the opposite side, thuspushing or pulling on any side of the boom alone would result in theopposite side moving in the same direction, this movement is cushionedand restricted in so far as to enable the obviation of swivelling whileturning, without the boom experiencing sudden uncushioned forces throughabrupt acceleration or deceleration of the tractor or throughintermittent uneven cutting burden of the boom.

A transverse movement mechanism (1208) for enabling a transversemovement of this vertical strut (903) is also mounted on this mountingframe. Although not shown, the mounting frame may also be adapted tohouse any electro-hydraulic system which controls the operation of theapparatus through manual or automatic selection or combination of both.

FIGS. 13 a and 13 b show in schematic form a dampening mechanismaccording to this embodiment of the present invention. The dampermechanism which dampens the effect of the transverse movement of thetractor, consists of two long struts which are pivotally connectable toone another at a pivot connection (1311). One part of this damper is apendulum (912), it carries the boom which is pivotally connected, via apivot connection (1312) at a bottom portion thereof. The pendulum (912)is suspended at the other end thereof from the pivot connection (1311).The support strut (903) is pivotally connected to the mounting frame bymeans of a connection block (1309) which is adapted to engage with thecorresponding pivot engagement means (1207) shown previously in FIG. 12.The vertical support strut (903) is maintained in a vertical orientationby interfacing it with a mechanical and electronic or any other means(1208). This maintenance of the vertical position is maintained when thetractor goes over a bump or onto a side hill by this damper supportstrut moving against the transverse movement of the tractor. This keepsthe vertical strut in line with the other side of the damper (thependulum (912), that hangs vertical by gravity and is connected to theboom. Thus the boom will always remain stable at its pre set angle andheight. Desirably the apparatus is provided with sensing means, thesensing means adapted to sense any movement of the pendulum relative tothe vertical strut and to effect a movement of the vertical strutrelative to the mounting frame to compensate for such movement.

Under certain circumstances the above dampening system (FIG. 14) can befurther complemented by the addition of an arched, centre cushionedroller (1400) which can be fitted to the top of the above dampeningsystem between the vertical strut (903) and the pendulum (912). Thisdevice dampens the effect of small but very fast transverse movements ofthe tractor that may not be taken up for one reason or another by thevertical strut damper either due to limitations of the control mechanismor travelling on very difficult ground.

The arched centre cushioned roller comprises of a roller mechanism(905), having two wheels or rollers (905 a, 905 b) that run on a curvedbar (909) maintaining a central position through the use of two springs(910) mounted at adjacent sides of the curved bar. The roller mechanismcarries the pendulum (912) at the pivot location (1311).

It will thus be appreciated that in this embodiment of the invention anapparatus is provided which is pivotable at three separate pivotlocations: between the vertical strut and its mounting frame, thevertical strut and the pendulum, and the pendulum and the boom.

Any vertical up and down movement of the boom relative to the frame asthe tractor is travelling over bumpy ground is dampened in this presentembodiment by a versatile telescopic pendulum (912), a schematic ofwhich is illustrated in FIG. 15. Fitted into this telescopic pendulum(912) is a hydraulic ram (1519) which is connected to an accumulator orhydraulic dampening device (1520). This allows the ram to act as adamper. It can also be understood that this ram that acts as a dampercan also controls the height adjustment of the boom.

As shown in FIG. 16 a the boom may be carried on a pivotally mounted vshaped carrier arm (1621). The carrier arm (1621) is pivotally connectedto the bottom of the pendulum using the interengagement connectors(1622A) that are adapted to engage with the engagement members (1312) ofthe pendulum. FIG. 16 b illustrates the v-shaped carrier arm (1621)carrying the boom.

As shown in FIG. 17, the carrier arm may also be adapted to incorporatea hydraulic ram (1723) that is connectable between the carrier arm andthe pendulum (912). This ram may be utilised to adjust the cutting angleof the boom. The carrier arm is provided with connection members (1624)at each end thereof so as to enable a pivotable connection of the boomto each end of the v shaped carrier arm. Attached at the bottom of thependulum, two rams (1722) are used to connect to each side of the boomand when activated fold the boom upwards transverse to the tractor. Theboom is desirably made up in sections with each section folding byswinging into the other. It will be appreciated that this can bemodified such that a number of sections may be adapted to fold togetheras a swinging around would tend to cause a twisting stress on the boomwhen folding.

As shown in this embodiment a pendulum arm 912 is pivotablly mountableto a moveable support arrangement 905. Similarly to that described inearlier embodiments, the pendulum arm is effectively suspended from acurved arm 909. The curved arm 909 is mountable to a vertical strut 903which is pivotably connectable to the mounting frame. In a normal modeof operation, when the agricultural machine is moving over flat groundthe pendulum arm is centred on the curved arm and hangs directly downtherefrom. As the agricultural machine moves over a slope or similarrough terrain the pendulum arm attempts to move along the curved arm soas to compensate for the slope in the terrain and maintain the pendulumarm in a vertical orientation relative to the ground over which it ismoving. Such movement of the pendulum arm is effected by theincorporation of support wheels 905 a, 905 b, which are incorporatedwithin the support arrangement and are moveable along an upper surfaceof the curved arm 909. Two dampening springs 910 are connectable to thependulum arm and are adapted to minimise the extent of movement,maintaining the pendulum arm in a central orientation relative to thecurved arm 909. As the pendulum arm attempts to move, a compensatingmovement of the vertical strut is effected so as to minimise anymovement of the components relative to one another, yet maintaining theboom arms in the correct orientation to effect correct cutting orspraying.

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of the boom of FIGS. 17 and 18 in anextended position. It will be appreciated that the overlappingarrangement of support arms 1900 for the boom enables a distribution ofweight along the length of the boom, thereby obviating any possibilityof twisting or warping of the boom during operation.

It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that althoughdescribed with reference to a single rigid frame and a boom mountedthereon that alternative means of providing the height adjustable andtransverse movement of the cutting devices relative to the tractor maybe equally applicable. The words “comprises/comprising”,“horizontal/vertical” and the words “having/including” when used hereinwith reference to the present invention are used to specify the presenceof stated features, integers, steps or components but does not precludethe presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps,components or groups thereof.

1. An agricultural apparatus adapted to be mounted to an agriculturalvehicle, the apparatus comprising: a) a mounting frame mountable on theagricultural vehicle, b) a height adjustable boom pivotably mountable onthe mounting frame and provided with a series of heads for cutting orspraying discrete areas of vegetation over which the boom is passed, theheight of the boom relative to the mounting frame being adjustable so asto allow the height at which the vegetation is cut or sprayed to beadjusted, the boom being pivotable to enable the boom to move in adirection transverse to the intended direction of travel, and c) adamper provided between the boom and the frame to dampen movement of theboom relative to the frame, the damper comprising a pendulum which ispivotable relative to the boom, and wherein the pendulum is pivotallymounted to the frame, wherein the damper further comprises a verticalsupport pivotably mounted to the mounting frame and pivotable relativeto the pendulum and wherein the vertical support acts so as to maintainan orientation parallel to the pendulum, the mounting of the pendulumbeing such as to maintain an orientation substantially perpendicular tothe vegetation over which the apparatus passes, and further wherein themounting frame includes engagement members adapted to engage withrestraining members provided on the boom, the interaction between theengagement members and the restraining members maintaining the boom inan orientation transverse to the intended direction of travel whileallowing a free movement of the boom regardless of the gradient overwhich the agricultural vehicle travels.
 2. The apparatus as claimed inclaim 1 wherein the boom comprises two arms, each arm being moveablebetween at least two positions, a first operative position wherein theboom is substantially transverse to the vehicle and a secondnon-operative position wherein the boom arms are substantially parallel.3. The apparatus as claimed in claim 1 wherein the boom additionallycomprises a support member pivotably attachable to the pendulum, andadditionally pivotably connectable at either end thereof to swingingsupport arms, the swinging support arms being pivotably connectable attheir other end to a boom connection frame, the pivoting arrangement ofthe support arms relative to both the support member and the connectionframe enabling a movement of The connection frame relative to thevertical support.
 4. The apparatus as claimed in claim 1 wherein thepivotable mounting of the boom relative to the pendulum is provided by acarrier arm engageable with both the pendulum and the arms of the boom,a pivoting of the carrier arm relative to the pendulum enabling a changein orientation of the arms relative to the pendulum.
 5. The apparatus asclaimed in claim 4 wherein the carrier arm includes an actuating meansdisposed between the carrier arm end the pendulum.
 6. The apparatus asclaimed in claim 5 wherein the actuation means is desirably provided bya hydraulic arm actuation of which effects a movement of the earner armrelative to the pendulum.
 7. The apparatus as claimed in claim 1 whereinthe engagement members arc mountable on arms extending from either sideof the mounting frame, the arms being pivotably mountable relative tothe mounting frame and adapted to move relative to the mounting frame tocompensate for any corresponding movement of the boom.
 8. The apparatusas claimed in claim 7 wherein each of the arms are pivotably mountableto a moveable connect member provided on the mounting frame, the connectmember thereby connecting both sides of the boom through the mountingframe such that movement on one side of the boom can result in movementof the other side of the boom.
 9. The apparatus as claimed in claim 1further including sensing means, the sensing means adapted to sense anymovement of the pendulum relative to the vertical support and to effecta movement of the vertical support relative to the mounting frame tocompensate for such movement.
 10. The apparatus as claimed in claim 1wherein the pendulum is mountable in an arched roller arrangementprovided between the vertical support and the pendulum.
 11. Theapparatus as claimed in claim 10 wherein the arched roller arrangementcomprises a roller mechanism having at least two rollers which areadapted to be moveable along a support bar, the pendulum beingsuspendable from the roller mechanism.
 12. The apparatus as claimed inclaim 11 wherein the roller arrangement further includes biasing meansto maintain the roller mechanism In a central orientation relative tothe support bar.
 13. The apparatus as claimed claim 1 wherein thevertical pendulum is telescopic, the telescoping pendulum having ahydraulic ram fitted thereto, an actuation of the ram effecting a changein length of the pendulum.
 14. The apparatus as claimed in claim 13wherein the ram can be adapted to effect a cushioning extension orcontraction of the pendulum so as to enable it to provide a dampeningeffect.
 15. The apparatus as claimed in claim 1 wherein the boom isprovided with a plurality of engagement means adapted to engage withindividual cutting devices.
 16. The apparatus as claimed in claim 15wherein the cutting devices comprise a shaft unit adapted to co-operatewith the engagement means provided on the boom, the shaft unitcomprising a collar with a rotatable shaft mounted therein.
 17. Theapparatus as claimed in claim 16 wherein the collar is co-operable withthe boom and the rotatable shaft is free to rotate within the collar,the rotatable shaft being provided with cutting elements at one endthereof, the cutting elements being remote from the boom.
 18. Theapparatus as claimed in claim 17 further comprising guard means, theguard means being provided between the boom and the cutting elements,the guard means adapted to prevent any vegetation coming into contactwith the shaft.
 19. The apparatus as claimed in claim 18 wherein thelength of the cutting elements is adjustable.
 20. The apparatus asclaimed in claims 19 wherein the rotation of the cutting elements iseffected by means of a belt mechanism, the belt mechanism being poweredby a motor mountable to the boom.
 21. The apparatus as claimed in claim18 wherein adjacent cutting devices are provided with cutting elementsof non-equal length.
 22. The apparatus as claimed in claims 21 whereinthe rotation of the cutting elements is effected by means of a beltmechanism, the belt mechanism being powered by a motor mountable to theboom.
 23. The apparatus as claimed in claims 18 wherein the rotation ofthe cutting elements is effected by means of a belt mechanism, the beltmechanism being powered by a motor mountable to the boom.
 24. Theapparatus as claimed in claim 17 wherein the length of the cuttingelements is adjustable.
 25. The apparatus as claimed in claim 24 whereinadjacent cutting devices are provided with cutting elements of non-equallength.
 26. The apparatus as claimed in claims 25 wherein the rotationof the cutting elements is effected by means of a belt mechanism, thebelt mechanism being powered by a motor mountable to the boom.
 27. Theapparatus as claimed in claims 24 wherein the rotation of the cuttingelements is effected by means of a belt mechanism, the belt mechanismbeing powered by a motor mountable to the boom.
 28. The apparatus asclaimed in claim 17 wherein adjacent cutting devices are provided withcutting elements of non-equal length.
 29. The apparatus as claimed inclaims 28 wherein the rotation of the cutting elements is effected bymeans of a belt mechanism, the belt mechanism being powered by a motormountable to the boom.
 30. The apparatus as claimed in claims 17 whereinthe rotation of the cutting elements is effected by means of a beltmechanism, the belt mechanism being powered by a motor mountable to theboom.
 31. The apparatus as claimed in claims 16 wherein the rotation ofthe cutting elements is effected by means of a belt mechanism, the beltmechanism being powered by a motor mountable to the boom.
 32. Anagricultural apparatus adapted to be mounted to an agricultural vehicleapparatus comprising: a) a mounting frame mountable on the agriculturalvehicle, b) a height adjustable boom comprising two arms wherein eacharm is provided in a plurality of engageable sections, at least one ofthe sections being foldable onto another, and when in an extendedposition the multiple sections are supported by interleaving supportmembers extending along the axis of the arm, said arms being pivotablymounted on the mounting frame and provided with a series of heads forcutting or spraying discrete areas of vegetation over which the boom ispassed, the height of the boom relative to the mounting frame beingadjustable so as to allow the height at which the vegetation is cut orsprayed to be adjusted, the boom being pivotable to enable the boom tomove in a direction transverse to the intended direction of travel,wherein each arm of the boom is moveable between at least two positions,a first operative position wherein the boom is substantially transverseto the vehicle and a second non-operative position wherein the boom armsare substantially parallel, and c) a damper provided between the boomand the frame to dampen movement of the boom relative to the frame, saiddamper comprises a pendulum pivotally mounted to said frame and issupported on an arched roller arrangement, whereby said damper furthercomprises a vertical support pivotably mounted to the mounting frame andpivotable relative to the pendulum and wherein the vertical support actsso as to maintain an orientation parallel to the pendulum. the mountingof the pendulum being such as to maintain an orientation substantiallyperpendicular to the vegetation over which the apparatus passes.
 33. Anagricultural apparatus adapted to be mounted to an agricultural vehicleapparatus comprising: a) a mounting frame mountable on the agriculturalvehicle, b) a height adjustable boom comprising two arms wherein eacharm is provided in a plurality of engageable sections, at least one ofthe sections being foldable onto another, and when in an extendedposition the multiple sections are supported by interleaving supportmembers extending along the axis of the arm, said arms being pivotablymounted on the mounting frame and provided with a series of heads forcutting or spraying discrete areas of vegetation over which the boom ispassed, the height of the boom relative to the mounting frame beingadjustable so as to allow the height at which the vegetation is cut orsprayed to be adjusted, the boom being pivotable to enable the boom tomove in a direction transverse to the intended direction of travel,wherein each arm of the boom is moveable between at least two positions,a first operative position wherein the boom is substantially transverseto the vehicle and a second non-operative position wherein the boom armsare substantially parallel, and c) a damper provided between the boomand the frame to dampen movement of the boom relative to the frame, saiddamper comprises a pendulum pivotally mounted to said frame and issupported on an arched roller arrangement, pivotable mounting of theboom relative to the pendulum being provided by a carrier arm, whereinsaid carrier arm comprises an actuating means disposed between thecarrier arm and the pendulum, the actuation of which effects a movementof said carrier arm relative to the pendulum, pivoting of said carrierarm relative to the pendulum enabling a change in orientation of thearms relative to the pendulum, wherein said damper further comprises avertical support pivotably mounted to the mounting frame and pivotablerelative to a pendulum and wherein the vertical support acts so as tomaintain an orientation parallel to the pendulum, the mounting of thependulum being such as to maintain an orientation substantiallyperpendicular to the vegetation over which the apparatus passes.